Under general supervision, operates communication systems utilizing radio, telephone and computer equipment to provide assistance to Bus Operators and the public; provides information to the public; dispatches personnel and equipment in response to service requests and to organize and coordinate the activities of field units; maintains records of activities in response to service requests; leads, instructs and directs in areas of safe driving practices, customer service, schedule maintenance and compliance with Division rules and policies; and performs other related work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Distinguished from Bus Operator in that incumbents regularly perform dispatch functions of the division and drive buses over assigned routes when necessary. Transit Dispatcher is distinguished from Bus operator in that this is a full-time position with a minimum of three years of experience in the operation of a bus, and possession of all required credentials. At this level, incumbents work with only occasional instruction or assistance; work requires incumbents to exercise sound judgment in selecting appropriate guidelines to follow; significant deviations require prior approval.

Assists in the training and development of new operators; provides on-going training and instruction in areas related to passenger relations, safety, accident prevention, bus maintenance; and keeps records of training provided, course content and attendees;

Checks on and communicates with supervisors regarding stops and zones, terminals and line checks, employee performance and may provide feedback to the Transit Supervisor to assist with performance evaluations;

Maintains, supports, and promotes a safe work environment while complying with all safety rules, regulations, policies, and procedures to ensure the well being of Torrance Transit customers and employees;

Responsible for complying with all City and departmental work rules, policies, and procedures, as well as DMV and all State and Federal mandates as required.

Examples of Other Duties

The following duties represent duties that are generally performed by this position, but are not considered to be principal job duties:

Customer service practices including courtesy to passengers, sensitivity to passengers with disabilities, stop announcements, responding to questions and providing information and direction to customers;

Proper bus safety and maintenance inspections procedures;

Two-way radio procedures and codes.

Ability to

Operate a passenger bus safely and effectively in accordance with the California Vehicle Code and local traffic regulations;

Read and interpret bus routes and schedules;

Arrive on-time and work independently with minimal supervision;

Communicate politely and cooperatively with passengers, employees and members of the public;

Work is performed indoors (i.e. on the bus) but regularly outside in seasonal climate and weather conditions. Drives for prolonged period of time with limited rest breaks. Heavy city traffic conditions are encountered on a daily basis. Follows a schedule. Noise from traffic and a two-way radio, slippery surfaces and dust are situations regularly encountered. Physical demands include driving, walking, constant arm movements and sitting for long periods of time.

These positions are considered safety-sensitive and subject to drug and alcohol testing, including random testing, under Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) drug and alcohol regulations.

Position requires availability to work various shifts on weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Career Ladder Information

Experience gained in this classification may serve to meet the minimum requirements for promotion to Transit Supervisor.